Tent camping in Saint Cloud, Minnesota sits among the state's distinctive prairie-forest transition zone at elevations averaging 1,000-1,100 feet. The area features glacial terrain with numerous kettles and moraines formed during the last ice age. Summer tent camping season typically runs May through September with average temperatures ranging 70-85°F during peak months, while determined winter campers face average lows of 5-10°F.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers over 15 miles of dedicated horse trails across prairie and wooded terrain. "This is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too. Seriously, when we head back to our trailer she will stop and refuse to proceed," notes Krista T., who adds that the "sandy prairie trails" are the most bug-free areas of the park.
Water activities: At A J Acres Campground, campers can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards for reasonable rates. "There is a dock for fishing as well. You can also rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee," reports Joe S., though he warns that "boaters and kayaks are in the same general area so you have to be careful so you don't get hit."
Off-leash dog walking: The 5-mile river loop at Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides excellent dog exercise opportunities. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" writes Alison O., who frequently visits with her canine companion.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry sites: Lake Maria State Park offers walk-in tent sites that provide exceptional privacy. "BP7 didn't have much dead wood around so we had to reserve the firewood we purchased," notes cheeming Y., adding that despite challenges, "it was a great experience. Just being out in the woods in November usually meant there wasn't any people around so we were able to enjoy the outdoors."
Water-view campsites: Many Lake Maria sites offer pond or marsh views for tent campers willing to hike in. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," writes Lydia N.
Convenient river access: Mississippi River County Park provides specialized sites for paddlers. "The canoe campsite is accessible from the river. Camping is allowed for those traveling by canoe and limited to one night of camping with no overnight vehicle. First come-first serve; Register onsite," explains Tori K., who gave the park 4 stars.
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Mosquitoes and black flies can be intense, especially near water. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," reports Steph H. at Lake Maria State Park, suggesting visitors should "take a look at other reviews as they come in and see what time of year they visited."
Pack-in requirements: For backcountry sites, prepare to carry all gear. "Carrying firewood, food, water, gear, on a hilly trail through the woods can become real tough real fast for anyone that isn't physically active. I easily was carrying 100lbs and had to take a couple breaks on the way," shares cheeming Y. about Lake Maria's BP7 site.
Water access limitations: Oak Island Watercraft Campsite requires boat transportation and offers minimal facilities. "This island on the Mississippi has a picnic table and a very primitive toilet. It's a great spot to take a rest while cavorting the Mississippi," explains LaMina H., highlighting its simplicity.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, consider the shorter hike-in options. "Lake Maria features secluded backcountry tent sites that require a hike of approximately one mile from parking areas," with Brian K. noting they "appreciated the camper cabin and the clean sites. Most if not all sites are in the woods from what I could tell so there is a lot of leaves."
Plan for hilly terrain: The hiking trails at Lake Maria involve elevation changes that may challenge young hikers. "The hike itself is rather hilly, and the site is about a quarter mile off of the main path," explains Brian C., who still gave the park 4 stars despite noting "the black flies were vicious, so be careful."
Consider cabin alternatives: Cozy Corners offers amenities that provide comfort for families new to camping. "This place was great! There is a park, baseball field, lodge, fish cleaning building, indoor pool, bathhouses, and laundry center," reports Tori K., making it suitable for families who want recreational options.
Tips from RVers
Tree navigation challenges: Many Saint Cloud area campgrounds have mature trees that create tight spaces. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," says Nettie W. about A J Acres Campground, noting the campground has "limited availability to sewer hookups, only about 5 true pull thrus, taken by seasonal."
Seasonal site dominance: Many local campgrounds cater primarily to seasonal campers. "The campsites are a little bit on top of each other. There aren't many campsites that you're able to reserve. The majority of the campsites are seasonal campsites," reports Joe S., suggesting transient RVers should reserve well in advance.
Golf cart convenience: Consider renting or bringing a golf cart for larger campgrounds. "A drive around showed many seasonal, if not permanent, trailers and campers. A golf cart would be best for getting around," recommends Nettie W., who camped midweek when "there was no activity happening."
